CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu politics appears headed for another dramatic realignment, with as many as 10 AIADMK legislators reportedly preparing to resign from the Assembly and join Chief Minister Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) before Independence Day, according to political sources familiar with the developments.
The proposed defections, expected to be completed ahead of any announcement of Assembly by-elections, could significantly alter the political arithmetic in the state and further consolidate the ruling party's hold on power.
Party insiders say the campaign—internally referred to as "Operation L"—has been designed to attract dissatisfied opposition legislators while expanding TVK's legislative strength after its successful Assembly election performance.
The development follows a series of earlier defections from AIADMK, including former ministers and senior district-level leaders who have already crossed over to the ruling party in recent months.
ASSEMBLY NUMBERS MAY SHIFT
The 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly currently has seven vacant seats, reducing its effective strength to 227. TVK presently commands 107 legislators and enjoys outside support from Congress members.
If the anticipated resignations materialize and the legislators successfully return through by-elections, the ruling side would move closer to securing a more comfortable legislative majority, reducing dependence on coalition partners.
Political observers believe the timing of the move is significant, with resignations reportedly planned before the Election Commission initiates the by-election process.
PROMISES OF TICKETS, KEY ROLES
Sources indicate that legislators joining TVK have reportedly been assured party nominations in future by-elections. Senior entrants are also believed to have been promised important organisational responsibilities, while some may be considered for cabinet positions if they return to the Assembly.
Although these claims have not been officially confirmed by the party, they have intensified speculation surrounding the ongoing political negotiations.
AIADMK FACES INTERNAL PRESSURE
The latest reports come amid growing dissatisfaction within AIADMK following its electoral setback. Several party leaders have expressed concerns over leadership decisions and organisational restructuring, with internal divisions becoming increasingly visible over recent months.
Political analysts say the continuing exodus threatens to weaken the opposition's organisational network ahead of future electoral contests.
OPPOSITION CRIES FOUL
Opposition parties have accused TVK of encouraging defections through political inducements and pressure, describing the developments as an attempt to engineer legislative numbers. They have also questioned the induction of leaders facing corruption allegations.
TVK has firmly denied all allegations, insisting that leaders are joining voluntarily and maintaining that ongoing legal proceedings against any individual will continue independently without political interference.
As Tamil Nadu moves toward another potentially decisive political chapter, all eyes remain on whether the expected resignations materialise before August 15—a development that could reshape the state's political landscape for years to come.
